Calm and Stable Government Remains Priority in Cayman Islands

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, CMC – Governor Jane Owen says that “calm and stable government” remains the priority in the Cayman Islands, which is dealing with the second collapse of a coalition government here within four years.

Government Resignations

Last Thursday, four members of Parliament, including the Deputy Premier André Ebanks, resigned from the government. The others are the Sustainability and Climate Resiliency Minister, Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, Health Minister Sabrina Turner, and Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden, who have left the United People’s Movement (UPM) with immediate effect.

Joint Statement

“In recent months in particular, the level of dysfunction and disorganization, and a lack of professionalism, places the country at risk of erroneous decision making and reputational damage which could have long-term adverse consequences,” the four said in a joint statement.

Governor’s Statement

In a statement, Governor Owen said that she appreciates that “this has been an uncertain time for many people throughout our islands” and that she is closely following developments after the resignation of four members of the UPM government.

“As many have said, calm and stable government remains the priority. As you all know, Cayman has a strong constitution that has stood the test of time and robust democratic principles upon which our constitution is based. We will have constant reference to these as discussions continue. Under the constitution, the Cabinet can continue to function provided it has a quorum of five ministers, including the Premier,” the Governor said.

Civil Service

She said the Civil Service will also continue to provide public services and policy implementation as it always does, promising to “provide further updates to you in due course, so I encourage you to remain tuned in to all official channels.”

Opposition Party’s Statement

Last week, the opposition Progressives party said that while it is “carefully considering its options,” it “stands ready to provide the leadership the Cayman Islands needs.”

Former Premier’s Warning

Former premier McKeeva Bush warned that “pushing the country into an early election does not speak well for a stable country.”

Conclusion:
The recent resignations of four members of Parliament have sparked concerns about the stability of the government in the Cayman Islands. Governor Jane Owen has emphasized the importance of calm and stable government, and the Civil Service will continue to provide public services and policy implementation. The opposition party is considering its options, and the country awaits further developments.

FAQs:

What is the current situation in the Cayman Islands?
The government is dealing with the second collapse of a coalition government within four years, following the resignation of four members of Parliament.
What is the priority of the Governor?
Calm and stable government remains the priority, according to Governor Jane Owen.
How will the Civil Service continue to operate?
The Civil Service will continue to provide public services and policy implementation as it always does, and will provide further updates in due course.